Schlossgut Diel

Burg Layen, a medieval castle from the 12th century, was originally the property of the Barons von Dalberg. In 1802 it was acquired by the Diel family who were courtiers at the estate for more than 150 years. Armin Diel took over full control of this celebrated estate in the Nahe district on October 1, 1987 - his 34th birthday.

Two third of the 40 acre vineyards are planted by Riesling. The estates very best vineyards are all situated in the Commune of Dorsheim: Goldloch (10 acres), Burgberg (5 acres) and Pittermannchen (2.5 acres). All these parcels are extremely steep and south facing. All of them have been rated as first class vineyards in the prussian classification map from 1901. The soil is composed by slate, fine gravel and red sandstone. The yields are strictly limited to 48 hectoliters per hectar. The classic Kabinett and Spatlese Rieslings proove year by year their enormous quality potential. The extremely rare Eiswein, Aisles Goldcap and Beerenauslese archieve highest scores in the international wine press and price records at wine auctions.

One third of the estate surface is planted by Burgundian grade varietals: 20 percent Grauer Burgunder (Pinot Gris), 10 percent Blauer Spatburgunder (Pinot Noir) and 5 percent Weisser Burgunder (Pinot Blanc). Beginning in 1984 all Pinots have been aged in small casks, mostly french barriques from Allier and Vosges. Following the concentration of each vintage one third of them are renewed every year. A cuvée of the best white Pinot barrels became famous as “Cuvée Victor”, named by Armin Diels 18 year old son Victor-Emanuel. Another interesting result of these special selections is a new creating, boldly called “Diel de Diel”. A crisp and elegant blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Riesling entirely aged in stainless steel. All Pinots are dry in style.

Schlossgut Diel is not only member of the prestigious Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter, Armin Diel is also president of the VDP-Nahe section. As well being recognized as one of Germanys finest wine producer, Armin Diel is amongst the countries leading food & wine writers, contributing to the German wine magazine “Alles uber Wine” and Co-Author of the annual Gault Millau Wine Guide Germany (never commenting on his own wines!)